Sen. Akaka the inspiration behind public service

September 7, 2012

I had an amazing time at the Maui Democrats' farewell celebration for Sen. Daniel Akaka.

We honored the man who almost single-handedly inspired me, as a young Hawaiian, to get involved in public service. I would have never ran, let alone thought about running for office, if not for Sen. Akaka.

Senator, although I will never come close to your level of service as a policymaker, veteran and educator, I will not stop working hard to serve the people of Hawaii while maintaining the spirit of aloha that you so seamlessly embodied. I will strive to bring your name justice.